Senator Erwin Tulfo and Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac led a high-spirited send-off ceremony on Monday for 105 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) scheduled for deployment to South Korea and Croatia. The event, held at the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) headquarters, underscores the government’s commitment to expanding secure, state-led employment opportunities abroad.
The ceremony honored 78 workers departing under the Employment Permit System (EPS) for South Korea. This government-to-government (G2G) mechanism ensures that Filipino workers are protected by standardized contracts and robust labor laws.
Senator Tulfo expressed his gratitude to the departing group, emphasizing that their sacrifice serves as a backbone for the Philippine economy.
“You are not just workers; you are ambassadors of the Filipino spirit. Your dedication provides a future for your families and stability for our nation,” Tulfo remarked during the briefing.
In addition to the Korean contingent, 27 workers are en route to Croatia for final visa processing. This deployment marks a significant milestone in the DMW’s efforts to diversify labor markets through G2G hiring programs, following the direct mandate of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to seek safer and more dignified pathways for Filipinos in Europe.
-
Public Service Values: Secretary Cacdac reminded the OFWs that their role constitutes a form of public service, urging them to maintain the highest standards of excellence and integrity while abroad.
-
Government-to-Government (G2G) Priority: The DMW reaffirmed its shift toward G2G hiring to eliminate middleman fees and reduce the risk of illegal recruitment.
-
Presidential Directive: The expansion into European markets like Croatia is part of the administration’s broader strategy to enhance bilateral labor relations with non-traditional partners.
“Today, we see the results of the President’s vision—a migration policy that prioritizes the dignity of the worker,” said Secretary Cacdac. “Whether in Seoul or Zagreb, the DMW stands ready to support you every step of the way.”
The 105 workers are expected to begin their respective roles in the manufacturing and service sectors immediately upon arrival and completion of local protocols.
